What is the primary purpose of a stop sign at an intersection?

The primary purpose of a stop sign at an intersection is to signal drivers to stop and ensure safety. When approaching a stop sign, drivers are required to come to a complete stop before entering the intersection. This is crucial for preventing accidents, as it allows drivers to assess the situation effectively, check for oncoming traffic, pedestrians, or other hazards before proceeding. The stop sign is a key element of traffic control that promotes orderly and safe movement through intersections, particularly in areas where visibility may be limited or where traffic volume is high.

While slowing down and yielding right of way can be important in certain contexts, they do not fully encapsulate the primary function of a stop sign, which mandates a complete stop. Alerting pedestrians and indicating the end of a road are both important aspects of road signage but are not the central focus of the function served by a stop sign at an intersection.